Birth defects are the leading cause of infant mortality in the UnitedStates. In fact, every 4 and 1/2 minutes, a baby is born with a birthdefect. The risk for many types of birth defects can be reduced thoughhealthy lifestyle choices and medical interventions before and duringpregnancy. There are many different kinds of birth defects including congenitalheart defects, cleft lip or palate, defects of the brain or spine, and avariety of genetic syndromes such as Down syndrome. Some have only a minoror brief effect on a baby's health and some have life-threatening and/orlife-long effects. More than 120,000 babies born with a birth defect (approximately 1 in 33live births) are reported each year in the United States. "Most people are unaware of how common, costly and critical birthdefects are in the United States, or that there are simple steps that can betaken to reduce the risk of birth defects" says Heather Aldred, RN HealthDepartment WIC/Case Management nurse. "The health of both parents prior topregnancy can affect the risk of having a child with a birth defect. Diet,life-style choices, factors in the environment, health conditions andmedications before and during pregnancy all can play a role in preventing orincreasing the risk of birth defects." Aldred adds, "Small steps like visiting a health care provider beforepregnancy and taking a multivitamin everyday can make a big difference.Also, women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant can take control oftheir health to improve their chance of a healthy pregnancy. Good habitsinclude regular physical activity, about 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, ormore. Healthy eating means having a balanced diet, low in fats, with atleast 5 or more servings a day of fruits and vegetables. A woman shouldtalk to her healthcare provider about making healthy changes for asuccessful pregnancy." For more information on the Health Department WIC and Case Managementservices call the Health Department at (309) 852-5272 (Henry) or (309)852-3115 (Stark) or visit our website at www.henrystarkhealth.com or find uson Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments.